Both the Glastron GLS 255 2011 and the Glastron GXL 255 2008 are deep-V designs, both built in fibreglass, so the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Glastron GLS 255 2011 at 25,3 ft versus Glastron GXL 255 2008 at 25,0 ft. At 4 600 lbs and 4 675 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class - either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 425 hp, the Glastron GXL 255 2008 has a 25-hp advantage over the Glastron GLS 255 2011's 400-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads - 56 gal and 56 gal - so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Glastron GLS 255 2011 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Glastron GXL 255 2008 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Glastron GLS 255 2011 could be the deciding factor.